Humane Education

Education is the key to preventing animal abuse and creating a kinder generation of animal advocates. Teaching children about compassion, anti-stereotyping, and respect for all living things are just a few of the important topics covered by the SPCA’s Humane Education Program. 

Our dedicated staff and volunteers present educational workshops and interactive modules in schools every year and host various youth clubs and scout troops at the SPCA. Programs are tailored specifically to the goals, ages, and needs of each group. There is no cost to have the SPCA visit your school but we encourage charitable giving.

CURRENT PROGRAMS FOR KIDS:

Rising Volunteers: We have a special volunteer program for young people who are under 18 (between the ages of 10-17).  If you are interested in learning more, please email Lynn@spcawestchester.org or call (914) 941-2896 ext. 126.

Reading to Dogs and Cats Program: Children are welcome to visit the SPCA to sharpen their literacy skills and confidence, while providing companionship for the animals. Kids can select a book to bring with them, or borrow a book from our reading library.

Homework with a Buddy: Bring that math or English homework with you to the SPCA and work through it with one of our dogs or cats while you sit outside their kennel. They love the companionship, and they can be inspiring too.

Playing an Instrument for an Animal:  Rising Volunteers are encouraged to play an acoustical instrument for the SPCA animals in our Music Room. Again, participants can practice without judgement of their performance, providing them with more confidence in their ability to play, all the while entertaining animals who crave the attention.

SPCA School Presentations: We are available to visit and facilitate discussions about a wide variety of topics customized for your classroom.

Tours and Field Trips: Bring your  scout troop, club, class or group to the SPCA for an educational tour.

Kids, Have your Birthday Party at the SPCA!

Please note, parties are temporarily on hold but should resume shortly.

Set-up and clean-up for your party is provided by the SPCA. Prior to the day of the party, please drop off any decorations, plates, napkins, and other serving supplies that you would like to use.

Birthday Menu Options:

Best in Show – You bring the food, beverages and cake. We offer an educational tour, introduce you to the animals, and provide supplies to create dog treats, make cat toys, and enjoy games with prizes.  *A minimum $250 donation.

Top Dog – You bring the food, beverages and cake. We offer an educational tour and introduce you to the animals. We provide supplies to enjoy games with prizes, and either create dog treats or make cat toys. *A minimum $225 donation.

The Cat’s Meow – Enjoy your food, beverages and cake elsewhere, then visit us at the rescue center for an educational tour. Meet the animals and choose to either create dog treats or make cat toys.  *A minimum $200 donation.

Contact Lynn Peters at Lynn@spcawestchester.org or (914) 941-2896, ext. 126 for more details or to arrange your party.